water mold

noun

, Mycology.

1. any of various aquatic fungi of the phylum Oomycota, free-living or parasitic in fish and other aquatic organisms.

Word History and Origins

Origin of water mold¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

More commonly known as water molds, oomycetes include some of the most devastating plant pathogens and pose severe threats to global food security.

From Science Daily

The hyphae of water molds -- fungus-like pathogens that cause blight in crops -- are particularly pointy.

From Science Daily

A bruise or crack will allow opportunistic fungi, bacteria, water molds and small insects to invade and colonize your pumpkins.

From Scientific American

When pore spaces in soils fill with water, they open up navigable channels for the fungal spores of a water mold called Phytophthora.

From Scientific American

The disease is caused by a water mold, phytophthora, literally “plant destroyer,” which leaches plants of their nutrients and has wreaked havoc around the world.

From Washington Post